Just one day after helping the Seattle Sounders secure advancement into the Western Conference semifinals in the MLS Cup Playoffs, Obafemi Martins received some more good news.
Martins has reportedly received a call-up to the Nigerian national team, which is currently coached by Sunday Oliseh. Nigeria is set to compete in two World Cup qualifying matches against Swaziland in November.
“It was a bit of a shock, but a nice shock,” Martins told BBC Sport. “I’m very happy, because I have always worked hard, supported and respected all the players picked by the coaches.
“I thank coach Oliseh for this great opportunity. I’m just looking forward to going out there and playing for Nigeria again.”
The two international matches will take place on Nov. 13 and Nov. 17, while Martins and the Sounders will compete with either the Vancouver Whitecaps or FC Dallas Sunday before the second leg on Nov. 8. Should they advance, the first leg of each conference’s championship will take place on Nov. 22.
Since moving to MLS, Martins has not been a regular member of the Super Eagles, with his last call-up coming in March 2013 against Kenya during a 2014 World Cup qualifier.
After scoring 15 goals for the Sounders during the 2015 MLS regular season, Oliseh has decided to add him onto a roster that also includes forwards Ahmed Musa (CSKA Moscow, Russia), Moses Simon (KAA Gent, Belgium), Odion Ighalo (Watford FC, England), Ezekiel Bassey (Enyimba FC) and Alex Iwobi (Arsenal FC, England).
What do you think about Martins’ call-up? Think his inclusion into the Nigerian team is long overdue?
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